Kozhikode Travel Guide



Title: Exploring the Hidden Gems of Kozhikode: A Unique Travel Experience

Are you looking for a destination that is rich in history, culture, and natural beauty? Look no further than Kozhikode, a city located on the Malabar Coast in the southern state of Kerala, India. Kozhikode, also known as Calicut, is a place that has something to offer for everyone, from history enthusiasts to nature lovers. In this travel blog, we will take you on a journey to explore the hidden gems of Kozhikode, which are sure to make your trip an unforgettable experience.

Kozhikode has a fascinating history that dates back centuries. It was once a major trading port and was visited by various civilizations, including the Arabs, Chinese, and Europeans, who left their mark on the city's culture and architecture. One of the must-visit historical sites in Kozhikode is Kappad Beach, which is believed to be the place where the famous Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama first set foot in India in 1498. The beach is historically significant, offers stunning views of the Arabian Sea, and is a perfect spot to catch a beautiful sunset.

Another historical landmark in Kozhikode is the Mananchira Square, which was once the palace tank of the Zamorin rulers, the traditional kings of the region. Today, it has been transformed into a beautiful park with a large pond, surrounded by well-manicured lawns, fountains, and sculptures. It is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike to relax and enjoy some peaceful moments amidst the bustling city.

If you are interested in learning more about the rich cultural heritage of Kozhikode, a visit to the Pazhassiraja Museum and Art Gallery is a must. Named after the famous warrior king Pazhassi Raja, this museum houses a wide collection of artifacts, including ancient coins, paintings, sculptures, and weapons, that provide a glimpse into the history and culture of the region. The museum also has an art gallery that showcases works of local artists, making it a perfect place to appreciate the artistic talent of Kozhikode.

For those who are looking to indulge in some retail therapy, Kozhikode has a bustling market scene that is worth exploring. SM Street, also known as Sweet Meat Street, is a famous street market in Kozhikode that is known for its wide range of shops selling everything from traditional spices and textiles to jewelry and electronics. The market is a sensory delight with its vibrant colors, aromatic spices, and bustling crowds, and is a great place to pick up some souvenirs or indulge in some local delicacies.

One of the unique experiences you can have in Kozhikode is exploring its intricate network of canals, known as the Kozhikode Backwaters. These canals are lined with lush greenery and offer a tranquil and picturesque setting for a boat cruise. You can hire a traditional wooden houseboat, locally known as a "Kettuvallam," and embark on a leisurely cruise through the backwaters, passing by quaint villages, coconut groves, and paddy fields. It's a great way to experience the rural charm of Kozhikode and get a glimpse into the lives of the locals who depend on these canals for their livelihoods.

Nature lovers will also be delighted by the beautiful beaches in Kozhikode. Apart from Kappad Beach, there are several other beaches that are worth exploring. Beypore Beach is a popular spot for picnics and water sports activities, and you can also witness the traditional shipbuilding process that has been practiced here for centuries Another beautiful beach to visit is Kozhikode Beach, also known as Calicut Beach, which is located in the heart of the city. This beach is known for its long stretch of golden sand, lined with swaying coconut trees, and is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike to enjoy leisurely strolls, watch the sunset, or indulge in some local street food.

If you're a wildlife enthusiast, then a visit to the Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary is a must. Located about 25 kilometers from Kozhikode, this sanctuary is a haven for migratory birds, and you can spot a wide variety of bird species, including herons, terns, seagulls, and sandpipers, among others. The sanctuary is spread across a cluster of islands in the Kadalundi River estuary, and you can explore the mangroves and wetlands by boat, making it a unique and picturesque experience for nature lovers.

For a unique cultural experience, a visit to the Beypore Fishing Harbour is a must. Beypore is a small coastal town near Kozhikode that is known for its traditional wooden shipbuilding industry. A fishing harbor is a bustling place with fishermen coming in with their catch, and you can witness the traditional boat-building process that has been practiced here for centuries. You can also take a ride on a traditional wooden fishing boat and get a firsthand experience of the local fishing culture.

Kozhikode is also famous for its mouthwatering cuisine, which is a blend of local Malabar flavors with influences from Arabian, Portuguese, and Dutch cuisines. One of the must-try dishes in Kozhikode is the famous "Kozhikode Biriyani," a fragrant and flavorful rice dish cooked with tender pieces of meat, spices, and aromatic herbs. Another popular dish is "Kallummakkaya Ularthiyathu," which is a spicy and tangy preparation of mussels cooked with spices and coconut. And for dessert lovers, "Kozhikode Halwa," a sweet and chewy delicacy made with ghee, nuts, and raisins, is a must-try.

In addition to its rich history, culture, and natural beauty, Kozhikode also hosts several annual events and festivals that are worth experiencing. One of the most famous festivals celebrated in Kozhikode is the "Malabar Mahotsavam," which is a cultural extravaganza that showcases the rich heritage, art, and traditions of the Malabar region. The festival includes cultural performances, traditional music and dance shows, handicraft exhibitions, and delicious local cuisine, making it a vibrant and colorful celebration of the local culture.

When it comes to accommodation, Kozhikode offers a range of options to suit different budgets and preferences. From luxury hotels and resorts to budget-friendly guesthouses and homestays, you can find a variety of options in and around the city. Many hotels also offer Ayurveda treatments, which is a traditional Indian system of medicine that focuses on holistic healing and wellness. A rejuvenating Ayurvedic massage or treatment can be a perfect way to unwind and relax after a day of exploring the city.

One of the best ways to explore the hidden gems of Kozhikode is to take a leisurely stroll through its narrow lanes and bylanes, which are filled with old buildings, colorful markets, and local shops. You can also rent a bicycle or a motorbike and explore the city at your own pace, stopping by at local cafes and eateries to savor the local flavors. The friendly locals of Kozhikode are known for their warm hospitality and welcoming nature, which adds to the charm of exploring the city. Another interesting activity you can do in Kozhikode is to take a backwater cruise. Kozhikode is located near the Kallai River, which is a part of the larger West Coast Canal network that stretches from Kollam to Kasargod. You can hire a traditional houseboat or a smaller country boat and cruise through the backwaters, passing through lush green paddy fields, coconut groves, and quaint villages. It's a unique way to experience the local way of life and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the region.

If you're interested in history and architecture, a visit to Mananchira Square is a must. It's a beautiful park located in the heart of the city, built around a large freshwater tank. The park is surrounded by historic buildings, including the Mananchira Palace, which was the residence of the Zamorins, the rulers of the region in the past. The palace has been converted into an archaeological museum, where you can learn about the history and culture of Kozhikode through various artifacts and exhibits.

Another interesting historical site to visit is the Tali Temple, which is one of the oldest and most revered temples in Kozhikode. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is known for its beautiful architecture, intricate wood carvings, and mural paintings. The annual "Revathi Pattathanam" festival celebrated here is a major cultural event that draws thousands of devotees from across the region.

If you're interested in art and crafts, a visit to the Kozhikode Handloom Weaving Centre is a must. It's a government-run center that promotes the traditional handloom weaving industry of the region. You can watch the skilled weavers in action, creating beautiful handwoven textiles using traditional techniques. You can also purchase authentic and high-quality handloom products as souvenirs to take back home.

For nature lovers, a visit to the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is highly recommended. Located about 90 kilometers from Kozhikode, this sanctuary is spread over a vast area of tropical forests and is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. You can spot elephants, tigers, leopards, deer, and several species of birds and butterflies while trekking through the sanctuary. The sanctuary also has several viewpoints that offer panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Kozhikode is also a gateway to the beautiful hill station of Wayanad, which is located in the Western Ghats of Kerala. Wayanad is known for its picturesque landscapes, tea and coffee plantations, spice gardens, and tribal villages. You can visit attractions like Chembra Peak, Edakkal Caves, Pookode Lake, and Banasura Sagar Dam, among others. Wayanad offers a serene and refreshing escape from bustling city life, and you can indulge in activities like trekking, camping, wildlife spotting, and exploring the tribal culture.

One of the unique experiences you can have in Kozhikode is to witness the traditional martial art form of Kerala called "Kalaripayattu." Kozhikode is known for its Kalaripayattu schools, where you can watch the skilled martial artists perform intricate moves and techniques with weapons like swords, shields, and spears. You can also enroll in short-term courses to learn the basics of this ancient art form and try your hand at it.

If you're interested in shopping, Kozhikode has a lot to offer. The city is famous for its local spices, especially black pepper, and cardamom, which are grown in the nearby plantations. You can also shop for traditional handloom textiles, including sarees, lungis, and dhotis, which are known for their unique designs and quality. Kozhikode is also famous for its local sweets, particularly the famous Kozhikode Halwa, which is a must-try when you visit the city. There are several local markets and shops where you can indulge in some retail therapy and take home some authentic souvenirs to cherish your memories of Kozhikode.

Food lovers will be in for a treat in Kozhikode, as the city is known for its rich culinary heritage. Kozhikode is famous for its traditional Malabar cuisine, which is a unique blend of Arabian, Mughlai, and indigenous Kerala flavors. The city is dotted with numerous street food joints, local restaurants, and bakeries that serve delicious and authentic Malabar dishes.

One of the must-try dishes in Kozhikode is the famous Kozhikode Biryani. It's a fragrant and flavorful rice dish made with aromatic spices, tender pieces of meat (usually chicken or mutton), and fragrant Basmati rice. The biryani is slow-cooked in a "dum" style, where the pot is sealed with dough to trap the flavors, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth delicacy that's sure to tickle your taste buds.

Another popular dish in Kozhikode is the Kallummakkaya Nirachathu, which is a dish made with mussels stuffed with a spicy mixture of rice, shallots, and spices, and then wrapped in banana leaves and grilled to perfection. It's a unique and delicious seafood dish that's sure to leave you craving more.

Kozhikode is also known for its sweet treats, and one of the most famous sweets from the region is the Kozhikode Halwa. It's a unique and delicious dessert made with wheat flour, ghee, sugar, and a variety of nuts and dried fruits. The halwa has a distinctively chewy texture and is rich in flavor, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. You can find Kozhikode Halwa in various flavors like banana, pineapple, and dates, and it's a perfect souvenir to take back home for your loved ones.

Another popular dessert in Kozhikode is the Banana Chips, which are thinly sliced bananas that are deep-fried to crispy perfection. These crunchy and savory chips are a popular snack in the region and are often served as a side dish with tea or as a standalone snack. You can find them in various flavors like plain, salted, and spiced, and they make for a great souvenir to carry back home or enjoy during your travels.

Apart from these, Kozhikode is also known for its authentic Malabar-style biryanis, seafood delicacies like fish curry and prawn fry, traditional snacks like Pathiri, and unique beverages like Sulaimani tea, which is a sweet and sour black tea with aromatic spices. Exploring the local food scene in Kozhikode is a culinary adventure in itself, and you'll be treated to a burst of flavors and aromas that will leave you wanting more.

In terms of accommodation, Kozhikode offers a wide range of options to suit different budgets and preferences. From luxury hotels and resorts to budget guesthouses and homestays, you can find a variety of options to choose from. Some of the popular areas to stay in Kozhikode include the Beach Road area, Mavoor Road, and the city center. Staying close to the beach or the city center will give you easy access to the major attractions and make your stay convenient.

As for transportation, Kozhikode is well-connected by road, rail, and air. The city has its own railway station, Kozhikode Railway Station, which is well-connected to major cities in India. The Calicut International Airport, located about 25 kilometers from the city center, is the nearest airport and connects Kozhikode to major cities in India and some international destinations. Local transportation options in Kozhikode include taxis, auto-rickshaws, and local buses, which are easily available and convenient for getting around the city.

Safety is always a concern for travelers, and Kozhikode is generally considered to be a safe destination for tourists. However, it's always advisable to take common precautions like being aware of your surroundings, avoiding isolated areas at night, and taking care of your belongings. Like any other destination, it's also recommended to follow local customs and traditions, respect the local culture, and be mindful of the environment and local communities while traveling in Kozhikode or anywhere else.

In conclusion, Kozhikode, with its rich history, culture, and natural beauty, offers a unique and unforgettable travel experience. From exploring historic sites and indulging in authentic Malabar cuisine to immersing in the local art and culture, Kozhikode has something for every traveler. Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, a foodie, or someone who simply loves to soak in the local culture, Kozhikode has it all. So, pack your bags, get ready for a journey of discovery, and make your way to this beautiful coastal city in Kerala, India. With its warm hospitality, diverse attractions, and unique experiences, Kozhikode is sure to leave you with memories that will last a lifetime. So, come and explore the wonders of Kozhikode and create your own travel story in this enchanting city.

Disclaimer: Due to the ever-evolving nature of the travel industry and global events, it's always recommended to check for the latest travel advisories, entry requirements, and safety guidelines before planning your trip to Kozhikode or any other destination.